U.S. patent application number 17/069273 was filed with the patent office on 2021-04-15 for comfort fit slip-resistant eyewear system.
This patent application is currently assigned to LooLoops, LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is LooLoops, LLC. Invention is credited to Daniel W Allen, Joseph M Barrett, Kent Chill Loo, Joseph Pepe Elijio Velasquez.
Application Number | 20210109372 17/069273 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 1000005195937 |
Filed Date | 2021-04-15 |
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United States Patent
Application |
20210109372 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Loo; Kent Chill ; et
al. |
April 15, 2021 |
COMFORT FIT SLIP-RESISTANT EYEWEAR SYSTEM
Abstract
An anti-slip eyewear system comprising a nosepiece configured to
couple to a bridge of an eyewear frame, the nosepiece comprising a
core comprised of a first material and an outer layer at least
partially surrounding or overlapping the core and comprised of a
second material, the second material having a lower durometer than
the first material, wherein the second material creates a plurality
of Schallamach waves on an outer surface of the nosepiece when the
outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a portion
of a face of a user. The first material may have a durometer
greater than about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness scale and the
second material may have a durometer less than about Shore 40A on
the Shore A hardness scale.
Inventors: |
Loo; Kent Chill;
(Scottsdale, AZ) ; Velasquez; Joseph Pepe Elijio;
(Tempe, AZ) ; Allen; Daniel W; (Mesa, AZ) ;
Barrett; Joseph M; (Tempe, AZ) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
LooLoops, LLC |
Scottsdale |
AZ |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
LooLoops, LLC
Scottsdale
AZ
|
Family ID: |
1000005195937 |
Appl. No.: |
17/069273 |
Filed: |
October 13, 2020 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
|
|
62913737 |
Oct 11, 2019 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
1/1 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G02C 2200/18 20130101;
G02C 5/124 20130101 |
International
Class: |
G02C 5/12 20060101
G02C005/12 |
Claims
1. An anti-slip eyewear system comprising: a nosepiece configured
to couple to a bridge of an eyewear frame, the nosepiece
comprising: a core comprised of a first material; and an outer
layer at least partially surrounding the core and comprised of a
second material, the second material having a lower durometer than
the first material and wherein the second material creates a
plurality of Schallamach waves on an outer surface of the nosepiece
when the outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a
portion of a face of a user.
2. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the first
material has a durometer greater than about Shore 40A on the Shore
A hardness scale.
3. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the second
material has a durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A
hardness scale.
4. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece
further comprises an attachment tab configured to seat within a
slot on a bridge of an eyewear frame.
5. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece
further comprises a plurality of attachment arms configured to
couple the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear frame.
6. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece
further comprises an adhesive configured to couple the nosepiece to
a bridge of an eyewear frame.
7. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 1, wherein the nosepiece
comprises a saddle shape configured to engage a nasion and a nose
of a user.
8. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 7, wherein the saddle
shape is comprised of an upper nosepiece portion and a plurality of
nose pads.
9. An anti-slip eyewear system comprising: a nosepiece configured
to couple to a bridge of an eyewear frame, the nosepiece
comprising: a core comprised of a first material; and an outer
layer at least partially overlapping the core and comprised of a
second material, the second material having a lower durometer than
the first material and wherein the second material creates a
plurality of Schallamach waves on an outer surface of the nosepiece
when the outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a
portion of a face of a user.
10. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 9, wherein the first
material has a durometer greater than about Shore 40A on the Shore
A hardness scale.
11. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 9, wherein the second
material has a durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A
hardness scale.
12. The anti-slip eyewear system of claim 9, wherein the nosepiece
comprises a saddle shape configured to engage a nasion and a nose
of a user.
13. A method for preventing slippage of an eyewear system
comprising: coupling a nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear frame,
the nosepiece comprising: a core comprised of a first material; and
an outer layer at least partially overlapping the core and
comprised of a second material, the second material having a lower
durometer than the first material; and creating a plurality of
Schallamach waves in the second material on the outer layer of the
nosepiece when the outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with
at least a portion of a face of a user.
14. The method of claim 13, wherein the first material has a
durometer greater than about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness
scale.
15. The method of claim 13, wherein the second material has a
durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness
scale.
16. The method of claim 13, further comprising seating an
attachment tab within a slot on a bridge of an eyewear frame.
17. The method of claim 13, further comprising coupling a plurality
of attachment arms of the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear
frame.
18. The method of claim 13, further comprising adhering the
nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear frame using an adhesive.
19. The method of claim 13, wherein the nosepiece comprises a
saddle shape configured to engage a nasion and a nose of a
user.
20. The method of claim 19, wherein the saddle shape is comprised
of an upper nosepiece portion and a plurality of nose pads.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent
Application No. 62/913,737 filed on Oct. 11, 2019, entitled
"Comfort Fit Slip-Resistant Eyewear System" to Loo, et al., the
contents of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its
entirety.
BACKGROUND
1. Field of the Invention
[0002] Exemplary embodiments generally relate to an eyewear system
design for enhanced user comfort and slip resistance.
2. Related Art
[0003] Eyewear is generally designed to fit a pre-determined face
shape and anatomical structure, which causes many wearers to
experience a poor fit, which is particularly the case for people
who lack prominent facial and nasal bridge structures. Conventional
eyewear typically relies on two hard nose pads that rest on either
side of the nose to support the eyewear; however, many wearers find
these hard nose pads to be uncomfortable and inadequate to hold the
eyewear in a proper position without slipping, sliding, or leaving
marks on the user's nasal bridge after removal.
SUMMARY
[0004] Implementations of an anti-slip eyewear system may comprise
a nosepiece configured to couple to a bridge of an eyewear frame,
the nosepiece comprising a core comprised of a first material and
an outer layer at least partially surrounding the core and
comprised of a second material, the second material having a lower
durometer than the first material. The second material creates a
plurality of Schallamach waves on an outer surface of the nosepiece
when the outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a
portion of a face of a user.
[0005] Particular aspects may comprise one or more of the following
features. The first material may have a durometer greater than
about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness scale. The second material
may have a durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A
hardness scale. The nosepiece may further comprise an attachment
tab configured to seat within a slot on a bridge of an eyewear
frame. The nosepiece may further comprise a plurality of attachment
arms configured to couple the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear
frame. The nosepiece may further comprise an adhesive configured to
couple the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear frame. The nosepiece
may comprise a saddle shape configured to engage a nasion and a
nose of a user. The saddle shape may be comprised of an upper
nosepiece portion and a plurality of nose pads.
[0006] Implementations of an anti-slip eyewear system may comprise
a nosepiece configured to couple to a bridge of an eyewear frame,
the nosepiece comprising a core comprised of a first material and
an outer layer at least partially overlapping the core and
comprised of a second material, the second material having a lower
durometer than the first material The second material creates a
plurality of Schallamach waves on an outer surface of the nosepiece
when the outer layer of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a
portion of a face of a user.
[0007] Particular aspects may comprise one or more of the following
features. The first material may have a durometer greater than
about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness scale. The second material
may have a durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A
hardness scale. The nosepiece may comprise a saddle shape
configured to engage a nasion and a nose of a user.
[0008] Implementations of a method for preventing slippage of an
eyewear system may comprise coupling a nosepiece to a bridge of an
eyewear frame, the nosepiece comprising a core comprised of a first
material and an outer layer at least partially overlapping the core
and comprised of a second material, the second material having a
lower durometer than the first material. The method further
comprises creating a plurality of Schallamach waves in the second
material on the outer layer of the nosepiece when the outer layer
of the nosepiece is in contact with at least a portion of a face of
a user.
[0009] Particular aspects may comprise one or more of the following
features. The first material may have a durometer greater than
about Shore 40A on the Shore A hardness scale. The second material
may have a durometer less than about Shore 40A on the Shore A
hardness scale. The method may further comprise seating an
attachment tab within a slot on a bridge of an eyewear frame. The
method may further comprise coupling a plurality of attachment arms
of the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear frame. The method may
further comprise adhering the nosepiece to a bridge of an eyewear
frame using an adhesive. The nosepiece may comprise a saddle shape
configured to engage a nasion and a nose of a user. The saddle
shape may be comprised of an upper nosepiece portion and a
plurality of nose pads.
[0010] Aspects and applications of the invention presented here are
described below in the drawings and detailed description of the
invention. Unless specifically noted, it is intended that the words
and phrases in the specification and the claims be given their
plain, ordinary, and accustomed meaning to those of ordinary skill
in the applicable arts. The inventors are fully aware that they can
be their own lexicographers if desired. The inventors expressly
elect, as their own lexicographers, to use only the plain and
ordinary meaning of terms in the specification and claims unless
they clearly state otherwise and then further, expressly set forth
the "special" definition of that term and explain how it differs
from the plain and ordinary meaning. Absent such clear statements
of intent to apply a "special" definition, it is the inventors'
intent and desire that the simple, plain and ordinary meaning to
the terms be applied to the interpretation of the specification and
claims.
[0011] The inventors are also aware of the normal precepts of
English grammar. Thus, if a noun, term, or phrase is intended to be
further characterized, specified, or narrowed in some way, then
such noun, term, or phrase will expressly include additional
adjectives, descriptive terms, or other modifiers in accordance
with the normal precepts of English grammar. Absent the use of such
adjectives, descriptive terms, or modifiers, it is the intent that
such nouns, terms, or phrases be given their plain, and ordinary
English meaning to those skilled in the applicable arts as set
forth above.
[0012] Further, the inventors are fully informed of the standards
and application of the special provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
112(f). Thus, the use of the words "function," "means" or "step" in
the Detailed Description or Brief Description of the Drawings or
claims is not intended to somehow indicate a desire to invoke the
special provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn. 112(f), to define the
invention. To the contrary, if the provisions of 35 U.S.C. .sctn.
112(f) are sought to be invoked to define the inventions, the
claims will specifically and expressly state the exact phrases
"means for" or "step for, and will also recite the word "function"
(i.e., will state "means for performing the function of [insert
function]"), without also reciting in such phrases any structure,
material or act in support of the function. Thus, even when the
claims recite a "means for performing the function of . . . " or
"step for performing the function of . . . ," if the claims also
recite any structure, material or acts in support of that means or
step, or that perform the recited function, then it is the clear
intention of the inventors not to invoke the provisions of 35
U.S.C. .sctn. 112(f). Moreover, even if the provisions of 35 U.S.C.
.sctn. 112(f) are invoked to define the claimed inventions, it is
intended that the inventions not be limited only to the specific
structure, material or acts that are described in the preferred
embodiments, but in addition, include any and all structures,
materials or acts that perform the claimed function as described in
alternative embodiments or forms of the invention, or that are well
known present or later-developed, equivalent structures, material
or acts for performing the claimed function.
[0013] The foregoing and other aspects, features, and advantages
will be apparent to those artisans of ordinary skill in the art
from the DETAILED DESCRIPTION and DRAWINGS, and from the
CLAIMS.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0014] Example embodiments will become more fully understood from
the detailed description given herein below and the accompanying
drawings, wherein like elements are represented by like reference
characters, which are given by way of illustration only and thus
are not limitative of the example embodiments herein. Elements and
acts in the figures are illustrated for simplicity and have not
necessarily been rendered according to any particular sequence or
embodiment.
[0015] FIGS. 1-3 depict an embodiment of a nosepiece comprising an
attachment tab.
[0016] FIGS. 4-7 depict embodiments of a nosepiece comprising
attachment arms.
[0017] FIGS. 8-17 depict various methods of attaching a nosepiece
to an eyewear frame.
[0018] FIGS. 18-20 depict an implementation of a nosepiece
comprising an adhesive.
[0019] FIGS. 21-24 depict various nosepiece shapes.
[0020] FIGS. 25-27 depict implementations of nosepieces to retrofit
an existing eyewear frame.
[0021] FIGS. 28-34 and 97-104 depict implementations of a snap-in
nosepiece.
[0022] FIGS. 35-40 depict implementations of a friction fit
nosepiece.
[0023] FIGS. 41-56 depict implementations of a nosepiece comprising
a higher durometer core.
[0024] FIGS. 57-59 depict an implementation of a hemispherical
nosepiece comprising a plurality of layers.
[0025] FIGS. 60-67 depict implementations of a snap-in
nosepiece.
[0026] FIGS. 68-70 depict implementations of a grooved
nosepiece.
[0027] FIGS. 71-75 depict an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising a nasion pad and two nose pads.
[0028] FIGS. 76-80 depict implementations of a tubular
nosepiece.
[0029] FIGS. 81-83 depict a nosepiece comprising a flexible
strip.
[0030] FIGS. 84-88 and 112-121 depict implementations of an
adhesive nosepiece.
[0031] FIGS. 89-93 depict implementations of a cylindrical
nosepiece.
[0032] FIGS. 94-96 depict an implementation of a nosepiece
comprising an upper flap.
[0033] FIGS. 105-111 depict implementations of a saddle-style
nosepiece.
[0034] FIGS. 122-123 depict an implementation of a nosepiece
comprising a cutout covered by a sheet of low durometer
material.
[0035] FIGS. 124-126 depict implementations of a nosepiece
comprising an air pocket.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0036] This disclosure, its aspects and implementations, are not
limited to the specific components or assembly procedures disclosed
herein. Many additional components and assembly procedures known in
the art consistent with the intended eyewear systems and/or
assembly procedures for eyewear will become apparent for use with
implementations of the eyewear systems of this disclosure.
Accordingly, for example, although particular eyewear systems are
disclosed, such eyewear systems and implementing components may
comprise any shape, size, style, type, model, version, measurement,
concentration, material, quantity, and/or the like as is known in
the art for such eyewear systems and implementing components,
consistent with the intended operation of eyewear.
[0037] Contemplated as part of this disclosure are various
embodiments of comfort fit and slip resistant eyewear systems and
their respective components. It is noted that although some figures
provided herein depict retrofitting existing eyewear systems while
other depict custom eyewear frames, the disclosures described
herein may be applied to any of a variety of eyewear frames and
eyewear systems.
[0038] Because of the unique anatomical structure of each person's
face, a need exists for a customizable and personalized comfortable
eyewear fit. The inventions disclosed herein focus on providing
enhanced eyewear comfort, fit, and performance. According to some
aspects, as shown in FIGS. 1-59, a single nosepiece 103 that is
configured to couple to the bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100 and
rest on the nasion of the wearer may be used to increase comfort
and reduce slippage of the eyewear when in use. In some
embodiments, the nosepiece 103 is comprised of an inner core 120
comprising one or more materials having a higher durometer relative
to the outer layer 119 to provide structure and shape to the
nosepiece 103. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term higher
durometer material is intended to refer to materials within, but
not limited to about the following durometer ranges within the
Shore A Hardness Scale: greater than about Shore 40A; greater than
about Shore 50A; greater than about Shore 60A; greater than about
Shore 70A; greater than about Shore 80A; greater than about Shore
90A; about Shore 40A-about Shore 100A; about Shore 40A-about Shore
90A; about Shore 40A-about Shore 80A; about Shore 40A-about Shore
70A; about Shore 40A-about Shore 60A; about Shore 40A-about Shore
50A; about Shore 50A-about Shore 100A; about Shore 50A-about Shore
90A; about Shore 50A-about Shore 80A; about Shore 50A-about Shore
70A; about Shore 50A-about Shore 60A; about Shore 60A-about Shore
100A; about Shore 60A-about Shore 90A; about Shore 60A-about Shore
80A; about Shore 60A-about Shore 70A; about Shore 70A-about Shore
100A; about Shore 70A-about Shore 90A; about Shore 70A-about Shore
80A; about Shore 80A-about Shore 100A; about Shore 80A-about Shore
90A; about Shore 90A-about Shore 100A. An outer layer comprising a
soft, low durometer material may surround at least a portion of the
inner core of the nosepiece to enhance the grip of the nosepiece on
the user's nasion and/or nasal bridge. For the purposes of this
disclosure, the terms soft, low durometer material or low durometer
material are intended to refer to materials within, but not limited
to, about the following durometer ranges within the Shore A
Hardness Scale: Less than about Shore 40A; Less than about Shore
35A; Less than about Shore 30A; Less than about Shore 25A; Less
than about Shore 20A; Less than about Shore 15A; Less than about
Shore 10A; Less than about Shore 5A; about Shore 0A-about Shore
40A; about Shore 0A-about Shore 35A; about Shore 0A-about Shore
30A; about Shore 0A-about Shore 25A; about Shore 0A-about Shore
20A; about Shore 0A-about Shore 15A; about Shore 0A-about Shore
10A; about Shore 0A-about Shore 5A; about Shore 5A-about Shore 40A;
about Shore 5A-about Shore 35A; about Shore 5A-about Shore 30A;
about Shore 5A-about Shore 25A; about Shore 5A-about Shore 20A;
about Shore 5A-about Shore 15A; about Shore 5A-about Shore 10A;
about Shore 10A-about Shore 40A; about Shore 10A-about Shore 35A;
about Shore 10A-about Shore 30A; about Shore 10A-about Shore 25A;
about Shore 10A-about Shore 20A; about Shore 10A-about Shore 15A;
about Shore 15A-about Shore 40A; about Shore 15A-about Shore 35A;
about Shore 10A-about Shore 30A; about Shore 15A-about Shore 25A;
about Shore 15A-about Shore 20A; about Shore 20A-about Shore 40A;
about Shore 20A-about Shore 35A; about Shore 20A-about Shore 30A;
about Shore 20A-about Shore 25A; about Shore 25A-about Shore 40A;
about Shore 25A-about Shore 35A; about Shore 25A-about Shore 30A;
about Shore 30A-about Shore 40A; about Shore 30A-about Shore 35A;
and about Shore 35A to about Shore 40A and/or the following
durometer ranges within the Shore 00 Hardness Scale: less than
about 80 Shore 00; less than about 70 Shore 00; less than about 60
Shore 00; less than about 50 Shore 00; less than about 40 Shore 00;
less than about 30 Shore 00; less than about 20 Shore 00; less than
about 10 Shore 00; about 0 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00; about 0
Shore 00-about 70 Shore 00; about 0 Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00;
about 0 Shore 00-about 50 Shore 00; about 0 Shore 00-about 40 Shore
00; about 0 Shore 00-about 30 Shore 00; about 0 Shore 00-about 20
Shore 00; about 0 Shore 00-about 10 Shore 00; about 10 Shore
00-about 80 Shore 00; about 10 Shore 00-about 70 Shore 00; about 10
Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00; about 10 Shore 00-about 50 Shore 00;
about 10 Shore 00-about 40 Shore 00; about 10 Shore 00-about 30
Shore 00; about 10 Shore 00-about 20 Shore 00; about 20 Shore
00-about 80 Shore 00; about 20 Shore 00-about 70 Shore 00; about 20
Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00; about 20 Shore 00-about 50 Shore 00;
about 20 Shore 00-about 40 Shore 00; about 20 Shore 00-about 30
Shore 00; about 30 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00; about 30 Shore
00-about 70 Shore 00; about 30 Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00; about 30
Shore 00-about 50 Shore 00; about 30 Shore 00-about 40 Shore 00;
about 40 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00; about 40 Shore 00-about 70
Shore 00; about 40 Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00; about 40 Shore
00-about 50 Shore 00; about 50 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00; about 50
Shore 00-about 70 Shore 00; about 50 Shore 00-about 60 Shore 00;
about 60 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00; about 60 Shore 00-about 70
Shore 00; and about 70 Shore 00-about 80 Shore 00. The low
durometer outer layer 119 may be comprised of one or more thin
sheets or flaps of low durometer material. When this low durometer
material 119 is in contact with the user's nasion and/or nasal
bridge, gravitational force is acting on the eyewear frame. The
vector components of the gravitational force cause the nosepiece to
drag slightly across the skin thereby creating tiny wrinkles known
as Schallamach waves on the surface of the low durometer material
119. These tiny wrinkles reduce slippage of the eyewear down the
nasal bridge due to the enhanced frictional forces that they
provide. It is to be understood that any of the embodiments of
nosepieces 103 or nose pads 117 described herein may be comprised
of the aforementioned higher durometer inner core 120 and lower
durometer outer layer 119.
[0039] FIGS. 1-3 depict an embodiment of an eyewear frame 100
comprising a slot 104 within a bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100
that is configured to receive a corresponding attachment tab 105 of
a nosepiece 103 that is configured to engage a user's nasion and
nasal bridge. The attachment tab 105 may comprise one or more
ridges, protrusions, or indentations configured to hold the
nosepiece 103 at a plurality of various heights relative to the
eyewear bridge 101. This allows a user to customize the placement
of the nosepiece 103 to a desired height. Once the desired position
is achieved, any excess length of the attachment tab 105 that
extends above the slot 104 in the bridge 101 may be removed by
cutting, breaking, or otherwise detaching the excess length.
[0040] FIGS. 4-7 depict embodiments of an eyewear system comprising
a notch 106 within the bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100 that is
configured to secure a nosepiece 103 to the eyewear frame 100 in a
position that allows the nosepiece 103 to engage with the user's
nasion and nasal bridge. As shown, the nosepiece 103 may comprise a
plurality of attachment arms 107 or other clipping mechanism
extending outward from the nosepiece 103 and configured to snap
onto the notched bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100. In some
implementations, the attachment arms 107 may be stationary and/or
integral to the nosepiece 103 and various nosepieces may be
available having the attachment arms 107 positioned at different
heights so that a user may select a nosepiece 103 having attachment
arms 107 at a location that allows the nosepiece 103 to be located
at an optimal height when attached to the eyewear frame 100. In
other embodiments, the positioning of the attachment arms 107 may
be adjustable so that the user may simply slide or otherwise move
the attachment arms 107 to a position that allows the nosepiece 103
to be located at an optimal height.
[0041] FIGS. 8-15 depict various configurations used to attach a
nosepiece 103 to an eyewear frame 100. As shown in FIGS. 8-9, a
nosepiece 103 configured to engage a user's nasion may be coupled
to the eyewear frame 100 using a magnetic fit such that a magnetic
element positioned in the nosepiece 103 is held in place by the
magnetic attraction to the eyewear frame 100 or a magnetic element
located in or on the bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100.
Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 10, the nosepiece 103 and bridge
101 of the eyewear frame may comprise corresponding snapping
components 108 that allow the nosepiece 103 to be snapped into
place on the bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100. FIG. 11 depicts
an embodiment in which the nosepiece 103 and the eyewear frame 100
comprise a corresponding sliding rail 109 and track 110 configured
to allow the nosepiece to slide into place at the bridge 101 of the
eyewear frame 100. FIG. 12 shows an implementation in which the
nosepiece 103 and eyewear bridge 101 comprise one or more
corresponding snapping tabs 111 and one or more recesses 112
configured to receive the one or more snapping tabs 111. FIG. 13
depicts a nosepiece 103 comprising one or more flanges 113
extending outwardly from one or more sides of the nosepiece 103,
the one or more flanges 113 comprising an opening therethrough
configured to receive a screw and mate with a corresponding opening
in the eyewear frame 100. FIG. 14 depicts a nosepiece 103
comprising one or more slide elements 114 extending from the
nosepiece 103 and configured to mate with one or more corresponding
receiving elements 115 in or on the eyewear bridge 101 to secure
the nosepiece 103 in place. FIG. 15 shows an implementation of a
nosepiece 103 comprising one or more spring fit elements 116
extending outward from one or more sides of the nosepiece 103. To
secure the nosepiece 103 in place, a user may pinch the sides of
the nosepiece 103 to insert the one or more spring fit elements 116
into one or more corresponding slots 104 on the eyewear frame
100.
[0042] Some implementations of a comfort fit, slip resistant
eyewear frame 100 may comprise a nosepiece 103 configured to couple
to the bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100 and engage the nasion of
a user as well as two adjustable nose pads 117 configured to engage
the user's nasal bridge. As shown in FIGS. 16-17, the nosepiece 103
may clip or otherwise snap into place on the bridge 101 of the
eyewear frame 100. Each nose pad 117 may comprise an extension arm
118 comprising a first end configured to slide along a hollow rail
of the eyewear frame 100 and lock into one of a plurality of
positions along the hollow rail according to the user's desired
positioning. It is intended that this implementation gives the user
multiple options for customizing the fit of the eyewear by coupling
only the nosepiece 103, only the nose pads 117, or both the
nosepiece 103 and the nose pads 117 to the eyewear frame 100
depending on the desired amount of frictional resistance.
[0043] FIGS. 18-20 show an implementation of a nosepiece 103 that
may be adhered to an eyewear frame 100 to allow a user to retrofit
existing eyewear or that may be made to fit a custom eyewear frame
100 to create a more integrated and seamless look. As shown, the
nosepiece 103 may be flat or hemispherically curved to splay
outward at the point of contact with the user's nasion and/or nasal
bridge. This allows for the lower durometer outer layer 119 of the
nosepiece 103 to have increased surface area in contact with the
user's nasion and/or nasal bridge to increase the frictional force
thereby resisting slippage of the eyewear down the nasal bridge. As
shown in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 20, any higher durometer
materials used in the inner core 120 of the nosepiece are
sufficiently soft and flexible enough to allow the nosepiece 103 to
bend and match the contours of the user's nasal bridge and/or
nasion. Additionally, FIGS. 21-24 provide non-limiting examples of
various shapes and sizes of nosepieces 103 that offer varying
amounts of surface area in contact with the user's nasion and/or
nasal bridge.
[0044] FIGS. 25-27 comprise exemplary implementations of nosepieces
103 designed to retrofit an existing eyewear frame 100. FIG. 25
shows a strip of an adhesive material 121 that may be adhered to
the underside of an existing eyewear frame 100 and which also
adheres the nosepiece 103 to the eyewear frame 100. FIG. 26 shows
an example of a nosepiece 103 comprised of an inner core 120 and
outer layer 119 that are sufficiently flexible to allow the
nosepiece to be bent or molded to conform to the shape of an
existing eyewear frame 100 while holding the shape of the nosepiece
103 and maintaining the nosepiece in place on the eyewear frame
once the nosepiece 103 is bent or molded. FIG. 27 depicts a
nosepiece 103 comprising a curved or wedge-like shape that is
configured to engage the nasion of a user. The nosepiece 103
further comprises a slot 104 or notch configured to receive the
bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100 and hold the nosepiece 103 in
place using a friction fit.
[0045] FIGS. 28-34 depict an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising an eyewear frame 100 with a plurality of slots 104
configured to accept a snap-in saddle-style nosepiece 103. As shown
in FIG. 30, the nosepiece 103 may comprise one or more tabs 111 or
other protrusions configured to seat within the slots 104 as shown
in FIG. 29. FIG. 32 depicts a cross-sectional view of an exemplary
embodiment of the nosepiece 103 which comprises a soft, low
durometer material comprising the outer layer 119 of the nosepiece
103 with a firmer, higher durometer material forming the core 120
of the nosepiece 103. FIG. 31 depicts various non-limiting examples
of the cross-sectional form of the inner core 120 and outer lower
durometer material 119. The shaping of the firmer inner core 120
relative to the lower durometer outer layer 119 may be customized
to optimize user comfort and fit. The dimensions A, B, C, and D
shown in FIG. 32 may be customized to fit user preferences and may
be produced in varying thicknesses and shapes to tune the
positioning of the nosepiece on the nasion and/or nose of a user.
FIG. 34 depicts a thinner, alternative embodiment of this
design.
[0046] FIGS. 35-40 depict an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising an eyewear frame 100 with a nosepiece 103 that is
configured to be wedged into place by the user with a friction fit.
This ease of coupling and removing the nosepiece 103 to/from the
eyewear frame 100 allows the nosepiece 103 to be easily removed for
cleaning and then replaced. As shown in FIGS. 38 and 40, the
nosepiece 103 may contact the user's nose on the nasal bridge,
nasion, and/or glabella, enhancing frictional retention in a
vertically and laterally stable anatomical area. FIG. 39 depicts by
non-limiting example how the nosepiece may be produced in various
sizes and offsets to allow the user to select the best fit.
[0047] FIGS. 41-44 depict an embodiment of an eyewear system
comprising a nosepiece 103 configured to engage with the nasion of
a user. As depicted in the cross-sectional view of FIG. 43, the
nosepiece 103 may comprise an inner core 120 comprised of a firmer,
higher durometer material as compared to the softer, lower
durometer material of the outer layer 119 of the nosepiece 103. The
core 120 and/or outer layer 119 may comprise various shapes to
influence the flexibility of the outer layer 119. In some
embodiments as shown in FIG. 44, the nosepiece 103 may comprise an
air gap 122 located between the core 120 and the outer layer 119
which allows the inner core 120 to move and flow freely against the
user's nose and/or nasion when the weight of the eyewear frame 100
is resting upon the user's face, thereby providing immediate
reciprocal resistance to retard slippage of the eyewear system.
[0048] FIGS. 45-48 depict an exemplary implementation of an eyewear
system comprising an eyewear frame 100 and a nosepiece 103
configured to engage with the nasion of a user. As shown, the
nosepiece 103 may comprise a plurality of flaps 123 which fold
against the nose and/or nasion of the user thereby creating a
leading and trailing edge of softer, low durometer material 119
which provides a frictional secure fit.
[0049] FIGS. 49-56 show an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising a nosepiece 103 configured to deform and lay against a
user's nasal root, nasion, and/or glabella when in use. FIG. 51
provides a cross-sectional view that bisects the eyewear frame 100
and nosepiece 103 along the centerline. As shown, the flexible flap
123 folds and lays against the user's nose and/or nasion in a
vertical position such that the flexible flap 123 grips the skin of
the user. FIGS. 52-56 show non-limiting examples of variations of
the nosepiece 103. FIG. 52 shows an embodiment of the nosepiece 103
comprising a soft, lower durometer outer layer 119 which is
supported by a firmer, higher durometer backing layer 120. FIG. 53
provides a version of the nosepiece 103 that comprises three thin
layers comprising a leaf spring 124 that creates a gradual
transition from firmer to softer materials across the pad with the
softer, lower durometer materials being present closer to the nasal
surface of the user. FIGS. 54-55 depict a wedge-like shape of the
nosepiece 103 in which the wider end of the nosepiece 103 is
comprised of a firmer, higher durometer material 120 and the
thinner end of the nosepiece is comprised of a softer, lower
durometer material 119. FIG. 56 depicts by non-limiting example,
various cross-sectional designs of the portion of the nosepiece 103
that is configured to be proximal a user's nose and/or nasion when
in use. The areas depicted in white are intended to represent a
firmer, higher durometer backing material 120 as compared to the
cross-hatched areas which represent a softer, lower durometer
material 119 that is deformable which enhances the grip of this
material on the nose and/or nasion of the user. At least some of
the various shapes depicted may comprise multiple layers of
material of varying durometers.
[0050] FIGS. 57-59 show an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising a hemispherical nosepiece 103. As depicted in the side
view of FIG. 58, the nosepiece 103 is comprised of a plurality of
layers of various materials. In the example shown, the nosepiece
103 comprises a layer of a material 125 of sufficient rigidity to
couple the nosepiece 103 to the eyewear frame 100. A soft, low
durometer material that is highly adaptable and ultra flexible
comprises the layer 119 of the nosepiece 103 that contacts the
user's nose and which allows this layer 119 to deform to increase
grip and reduce eyewear slippage. The middle layer 126 is comprised
of a material that is of a higher durometer than the soft, low
durometer material while still being flexible enough to influence
the degree of flex of the soft, low durometer layer. The length and
thickness of these various layers may be customized to create a
desirable fit for the user. FIG. 59 provides a cross-sectional view
that bisects the eyewear frame 100 and depicts an example of how
the layers are positioned relative to one another. By varying the
thickness of the various layers, the height at which the eyewear
frame 100 rests on the face of the user may be adjusted for optimal
fit. By varying the shape of the edge of the middle layer 126, the
position of the soft, low durometer material 119 varies on the
user's nose and may be customized to fit user preferences.
[0051] FIGS. 60-67 depict an eyewear system comprising an eyewear
frame 100 comprising a rail 109 that is configured to accept a
snap-in nosepiece 103 comprising one or more posts or other
protrusions.
[0052] FIGS. 68-70 depict an eyewear system comprising a nosepiece
103 having at least an outer layer 119 comprised of a soft, low
durometer material that is configured with a channel 128 or groove
that allows the nosepiece 103 to slide onto the frame 100 and
remain in place with a friction fit. As shown, the nosepiece 103
may comprise one or more perforations or openings 129 therethrough
to increase air flow to enhance the comfort of the user. The fit of
the eyewear system on the face of a user may be customized by
changing the thickness of the nosepiece 103.
[0053] FIGS. 71-75 provide an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising a nasion pad 130 and two nose pads 117, any of which are
removable and configured to attach independently to the eyewear
frame 100 so that the user may chose use all, some, or none of the
pads. In some embodiments, the pads 130, 117 may be comprised of a
thin, flexible surface that allows for even pressure distribution
on the nasal surface and/or additional pressure on the nasion to
reduce the load on the nose pads 117.
[0054] FIGS. 76-80 depict a hollow, flexible tube of low durometer
material 119 comprising one or more notches 106 at one or both ends
that allow an existing eyewear frame 100 to be retrofitted to
create a secure fit for the user. As shown in FIG. 79, the tube may
comprise various cross-sectional shapes and thicknesses to create
different elastic properties of the tube which influence the fit
and allow for user customization.
[0055] FIGS. 81-83 provide an example of a nosepiece 103 that is
configured to couple to the nosepads 117 of an eyewear frame having
nose pads that are integral to the frame 100. The nosepiece 103 may
couple to the frame 100 using an adhesive strip. As shown in FIG.
83, the nosepiece 103 may comprise a flexible strip 132 with a
soft, low durometer material 119 wrapped around the flexible strip
132. As the flexible strip 132 is folded, adhesive pads 121 on the
ends of the strip 132 may be folded around the existing nose pads
117 and adhered to the eyewear frame 100.
[0056] FIGS. 84-88 depict a nosepiece 103 configured to couple to
an eyewear frame 100 using an adhesive backing 121. In an exemplary
embodiment, the nosepiece 103 is configured to engage with the
nasion of a user and comprises a soft, low durometer outer layer
119 and a higher durometer material 120 that retains flexibility
such as by non-limiting example, a foam. The shape of the edge of
the higher durometer material 120 influences the flexibility and
softness of the outer layer 119 to produce a customized fit as
shown in FIG. 88.
[0057] FIGS. 89-93 provide an exemplary implementation of a
nosepiece 103 that is retrofitted to an existing eyewear frame 100.
The nosepiece 103 comprises a substantially cylindrical shape and
is comprised of a soft, flexible material. Some implementations may
further comprise a second soft, lower durometer material 119
positioned at about the middle of the nosepiece 103 that is
configured to engage with the nose of a user. The soft, lower
durometer material 119 enhances friction to increase grip and
reduce eyewear slippage. FIG. 93 depicts an implementation
comprising a bump, ridge, or asperity in the soft, lower durometer
material 119 which may enhance friction.
[0058] FIGS. 94-96 depict an exemplary embodiment of a nosepiece
103 that is retrofitted to an existing eyewear frame 100. As shown
in FIG. 95, the nosepiece 103 may comprise a one or more notches
106 on at least one side and an upper flap 133 that is configured
to wrap around the bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100 to secure the
nosepiece 103 to the eyewear frame 100. The notched side aids in
securing the nosepiece 103 by holding onto the sides of the eyewear
frame 100 which prevents rotation of the nosepiece 103 around the
bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100 when in use.
[0059] FIGS. 97-104 show an implementation of an eyewear system
comprising an eyewear frame 100 having one or more guiding slots
104 or other openings in the bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100
configured to receive a corresponding protrusion 134 extending from
a nosepiece 103 configured to engage the nasion of a user. The
nosepiece 103 may be snapped into place and removed by pinching and
pushing or pulling on the nosepiece 103. FIG. 104 provides an
implementation in which the nosepiece 103 comprises one or more
magnetic elements 135 configured to mate with one or more magnetic
elements 135 in the one or more guiding slots 104 on the bridge 101
of the eyewear frame 100. As depicted in FIG. 102, the nosepiece
103 may comprise a hollow tube, a solid material, or an air pocket
within the nosepiece 103.
[0060] FIGS. 105-111 depict an eyewear system comprising a
saddle-style nosepiece 103 that is configured to be retrofitted to
existing eyewear frames 100. Because eyewear frames 100 vary in
size and thickness, the nosepiece 103 comprises a soft, lower
durometer material that has sufficient flexibility to be wedged and
conformed to fit around the various types of eyewear frames. In
FIG. 109, this soft, low durometer material is represented by the
strips that are touching either side of the eyewear frame 100.
[0061] FIGS. 112-115 depict an eyewear system comprising a soft,
low durometer wedge-shaped nosepiece 103 comprising a removable
adhesive strip 121 configured to adhere the nosepiece 103 to the
eyewear frame 100 so as to retrofit existing eyewear with the
nosepiece 103.
[0062] FIGS. 116-119 provide an eyewear system comprising a
nosepiece 103 configured to be wedged in place and adhesively
coupled to the bridge 101 of the eyewear frame 100. FIG. 118
depicts an implementation comprising a soft, low durometer backing
piece 136 comprising a hollow cutout 137. A sheet of material 138
having sufficient elastic properties is then coupled over the
hollow cutout 137 thereby creating a spring-like platform for the
nose of the user. As the eyewear frame 100 is loaded onto the nose
of the user the protrusions on the backing piece bend inward,
thereby softly caressing the nose of the user. FIG. 119 depicts an
implementation of the nosepiece comprising a hollow backing
material 136. The sheet of sufficiently elastic material 138 is
positioned inside this hollow backing material 136 such that as the
nose of a user deforms the elastic material, the sheet of elastic
material 138 rests against a ridge or other asperity of the backing
material 136 and enhances the friction between the nosepiece 103
and the nose of the user.
[0063] FIGS. 120-121 depict an implementation of a nosepiece 103
comprised of a hollow tube 131 of soft, low durometer material 119
which may optionally comprise a substantially planar backing
structure 136. The nosepiece 103 is configured to adhere to the
bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100 and may comprise various widths
and thicknesses as shown in FIG. 121 to provide a custom fit for
the user.
[0064] FIGS. 122-123 provide an example of a nosepiece 103
comprised of a higher durometer material 120 such as by
non-limiting example, a foam, configured with a cutout 137 or
indentation which is covered by a sheet of soft, lower durometer
material 138. When the sheet of soft, lower durometer material 138
is in contact with the user's nasal bridge or nasion, the
elasticity of the sheet 138 causes the higher, durometer material
120 to deform such that the outer edges bend toward the user's
facial surface thereby reducing pressure on the user's face from
the eyewear frame 100 and increasing friction to prevent eyewear
slippage. The nosepiece 103 may be coupled to the bridge 101 of the
eyewear frame 100 using an adhesive, magnet, or other appropriate
attachment mechanism.
[0065] FIGS. 124-126 depict an exemplary embodiment of a nosepiece
103 that may be coupled to the bridge 101 of an eyewear frame 100
using an adhesive, a magnet, one or more friction fit tabs, or one
of more snap in and quick release components as shown in FIG. 126.
The nosepiece may comprise a higher durometer material 120 and a
sheet of a softer, lower durometer material 138 configured to wrap
over the higher durometer material 120 such that an air pocket 122
is formed. When the nosepiece 103 is in contact with the nasal
bridge or nasion of a user, the soft, lower durometer material 138
deforms thereby increasing friction to prevent slippage of the
eyewear. Additionally, provided that the higher durometer material
120 is of sufficient flexibility, such as for example, a foam, the
higher durometer material 120 also deforms to increase friction and
prevent slippage of the eyewear frame 100 as shown in FIG. 256. The
shape of the higher durometer material 120 relative to the
placement of the soft, lower durometer material 138 may be varied
to provide a customized fit.
[0066] It will be understood that implementations are not limited
to the specific components disclosed herein, as virtually any
components consistent with the intended operation of a method
and/or system implementation for eyewear may be utilized.
Accordingly, for example, although eyewear systems may be
disclosed, such components may comprise any shape, size, style,
type, model, version, class, grade, measurement, concentration,
material, weight, quantity, and/or the like consistent with the
intended operation of a method and/or system implementation for
eyewear may be used. In places where the description above refers
to particular implementations of eyewear, it should be readily
apparent that a number of modifications may be made without
departing from the spirit thereof and that these implementations
may be applied to other eyewear systems.
* * * * *